State lawmakers to again consider banning red-light cameras

State lawmakers to again consider banning red-light cameras

(Credit: MGN Online)

DENVER — It’s good news for many drivers who don’t like those red light cameras. Today, state lawmakers will talk about whether or not to get rid of them.

Red light cameras flash when the light turns and the picture shows any driver still in the intersection and running the red light. There is a move to ban the cameras statewide, but not everyone is on board.

The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety says cities with red light cameras have 14 percent fewer deadly crashes. While many drivers are frustrated by the idea of getting a ticket in the mail with their picture on it, others say they’re a great tool in keeping roads safe.

“I do not like them, probably because my husband has gotten three tickets in past two months,” said Sharon Doran of Denver. “He’s a physician in a hurry to get to the ER and gets tickets so I don’t like them.

“I don’t think people should be running red lights. If you run the light, it’s against the law, should probably get ticket for it.”

The ban would also include photo radar cameras. You see those in vans parked on the side of the road.

Those who want to keep the cameras say they save money. It would take five officers to do what a red light camera does running 24 hours a day.

Here’s one thing drivers don’t like — even if your tires hit the crosswalk where you stop, when the camera snaps, you’re going to get a ticket.

Lawmakers tried to get a ban passed two years ago but couldn’t get enough votes to do it.